zaai1 fe1齋啡斋啡
Jyutpingzaai1 fe1
Yalejāai fē
Definition
Black coffee; coffee without milk or sugar.
colloquialdrinkfood
How it's used
Refers specifically to coffee served without milk or sugar, often highlighting a preference for the pure taste of the beans. It is a very common order in local tea restaurants and cafes, reflecting a preference for a lighter, less caloric drink. The term is essentially a compound of 齋, meaning plain or vegetarian, and 啡, the shortened form of 咖啡.
Measure word
bui1杯būiExamples
Are you used to drinking black coffee?
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with Americano, which is espresso diluted with water. While an Americano is technically a type of 齋啡, the term 齋啡 is a general description of the state of the coffee rather than a specific brewing method.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
